Ofcom officials, including Russell, stressed the importance of proactive communication with the government about legislative gaps and the need for decisive action to improve online safety measures.

Ian Russell, an advocate for online safety following his daughter's death, urged Ofcom to enforce the new measures strongly and to communicate legislative weaknesses to the government.

Future discussions may address issues like addictive online habits among children, as highlighted by Technology Secretary Peter Kyle.

Dame Melanie Dawes, head of Ofcom, emphasized that technology companies are not being granted much power in implementing measures to protect children online under the new reforms of the Online Safety Act.

Ofcom has proposed various age verification methods, including facial recognition and using verified data like credit card information, to ensure children are protected from harmful online content.

Recent research by Ofcom revealed that 8% of children aged 8 to 14 in the UK accessed online pornographic content within a month, prompting investigations into platform failures to protect minors.

Ofcom clarified that while companies have some discretion, they must control algorithms to prevent harmful content, such as violence and misogyny, from being shown to children.

Dame Melanie Dawes explained that tech companies can choose their methods for age verification but must demonstrate their effectiveness or face enforcement after July 25, 2025.

Ofcom plans to release a report next year assessing the effectiveness of various age assurance methods and is investigating platforms for potential failures in protecting children.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander highlighted the ongoing responsibility of tech companies to implement robust safeguards for children and acknowledged the government's commitment to enhancing online safety.

The reforms mandate strict age checks on sites with harmful content, including adult websites and social media, to prevent children from accessing inappropriate material.

Parliament has enforced an absolute ban on suicide, self-harm, and pornography for users under 18, with Ofcom prepared to extend these controls if the law is expanded.